Breastfeeding Quote of the Day: Empowering the New Mother
January 10, 2008 by Angela White, J.D., breastfeeding counselor
Filed under breastfeeding, mothering, quotes and literature
The benefits to the new mother of immediate breastfeeding are innumerable, not the least of which after the weariness of labor and birth is the emotional gratification, the feeling of strength, the composure, and the sense of fulfillment that comes with the handling and suckling of the baby.
– Ashley Montagu, Touching: The Human Significance of the Skin
I totally agree that with the right preparation and support, that first breastfeeding session can be tremendously empowering. This quote reminds me of the flip side, though — how discouraging and emotionally difficult it can be for a new mother who feels uncertain about her ability to breastfeed. Many mothers struggle in the early days, but sometimes all it takes are a few words of encouragement from another mother, a nurse, a lactation consultant, a breastfeeding counselor. You are doing it right, your milk will come in, the baby is getting enough, trust your body. Validating the new mother can make all the difference.
I had a not so great first breastfeeding experience due to a long, induced, hard labor. The midwife helped me get the baby to latch right after he was born (thankfully), but after that, he didn’t latch/suckle properly for three or four LONG days. I was in Germany, so the midwife was coming to see me daily, and she was reassuring, and encouraged me to be patient. I am not sure how I would have reacted without her support, but I am incredibly grateful that I had it when I needed it most!